The New York Islanders are back in the playoffs for the first time since the 2015-16 NHL season. To stay in the dance as long as possible they’ll need to rely on a core group of players from across their lineup.
Of course, the Islanders will continue to preach that cohesive defensive structure and team-first approach that got them to the playoffs in the first place. But teams always need a few players to stand out amongst the others in the postseason.
That’s just the nature of the playoffs. Every inch of ice is intensely fought over.